Navy Federal Credit Union

(UNCONFIRMED – Citation Needed): Charles W. Heal, United States Army, is reported to have been awarded the Silver Star under the below-listed General Orders for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action against the enemy while serving with the 36th Infantry Division during World War II.

Awards Received

  • Soldier’s Medal

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    Master Sergeant

    Batallion:

    3d Battalion

    Regiment:

    14th Armored Cavalry Regiment

    Action Date:

    April 7, 1952

    Department of the Army, General Orders No. 18 (February 18, 1953)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Master Sergeant Charles W. Heal, United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 14th Armored Cavalry, near Hershfeld, Germany, on 7 April 1952. As the battalion was moving into a field position in convoy, an ammunition truck loaded with high explosives, including 90-mm ammunition, caught fire. The driver, unable to extinguish the blaze, abandoned the vehicle and attempted to warn other trucks of the danger. Two vehicles had already moved into range of danger and being unable to move their trucks to safety, the drivers abandoned them. Sergeant Heal arrived at the scene from the head of the convoy, quickly analyzed the situation, and, ignoring his personal safety and the flying fragments of exploding ammunition, assisted in successfully moving all vehicles to a safe distance from the danger area. His prompt and unhesitating action prevented injury to comrades in the vicinity and saved valuable equipment and cargoes. Sergeant Heal’s disregard for his safety, devotion to duty, and courage reflect the highest credit on himself and the military service.